JR BELLIES Submit Bid to Host 2027 Minto Cup

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Junior Salmonbellies Submit Bid to Host 2027 Minto Cup

NEW WESTMINSTER, BC (June 2026) — The New Westminster Junior A Salmonbellies have officially submitted their bid to host the 2027 Minto Cup National Junior A Lacrosse Championship, aiming to bring Canada’s premier junior lacrosse event back to the “Royal City.”

The bid highlights New Westminster’s unmatched lacrosse heritage as one of the birthplaces of the sport and home to the Canadian Lacrosse Hall of Fame, along with the iconic Queen’s Park Arena, renowned for its electric, sellout championship atmosphere.

Backed by a proven history of hosting successful national championships—including three previous Minto Cups (1990, 2007, 2013)—the Salmonbellies also bring extensive experience hosting Mann Cup championships, where sellout crowds and total attendance frequently reached 15,000–20,000 fans, reinforcing the city’s reputation as one of the premier championship environments in Canadian lacrosse.

The bid is being led by Junior Salmonbellies President Walt Weaver, whose extensive business leadership experience and strong community connections are helping drive a professional, well-resourced hosting plan focused on delivering an exceptional national championship.

Supported by a strong coalition of community partners, the Salmonbellies are committed to delivering a first-class, fully self-sufficient event.

The bid has received strong support from the City of New Westminster, local lacrosse organizations, alumni groups, and community partners, reflecting a unified commitment to bringing the championship to the city. Mayor Patrick Johnstone emphasized the significance of the opportunity, noting that hosting the Minto Cup would not only showcase New Westminster and its historic Queen’s Park Arena, but also strengthen community pride, inspire youth participation, and celebrate the deep cultural roots of lacrosse in the city.

The New Westminster Junior Salmonbellies also recognize the importance of community and heritage beyond the game itself. The organization is committed to honouring the relationships with the Halkomelem-speaking peoples, including the Qayqayt First Nation and neighbouring Coast Salish Nations, through partnership, respect, and inclusion in the planning and hosting of the 2027 Minto Cup.

The 2027 vision includes a modern championship experience featuring enhanced fan engagement, national broadcast coverage, and meaningful community involvement, while leaving a lasting legacy for grassroots lacrosse development.

The bid has been submitted to the BC Junior A Lacrosse League Governors for consideration.

“Bring the championship home.”

Media Contact

Warren Goss – Governor/General Manager

New Westminster Junior A Salmonbellies

Email: jrbelliesgm@shaw.ca